Dog Tranquilizer Pills

Dog tranquilizer pills may be prescribed by the vet to solve
problems caused by dogs that are too aggressive, hyperactive or that
experience fear or anxiety. Tranquilizer pills may be effective, but
they shouldn't be administered for a long period of time, as they may
have side effects. Behavioral problems in dogs can usually be solved
with training. Tranquilizers should be only a temporary solution.

Conditions that Require Tranquilizers

Tranquilizer pills in canines will be used in a few circumstances including:

After surgery, to relieve pain

Dogs that experience fear (i.e., triggered by lightning)

Hyperactive dogs that cannot be calmed down (there are a few
dog breeds that are more likely to display a hyperactive behavior,
such as Jack Russels)

Dogs that suffer from stress and anxiety

Aggressive dogs

Noisy dogs

To suppress hormonal activity, especially during the heat cycle when dogs tend to be more active and uncontrollable

Tranquilizer pills in dogs may be used occasionally, but it is not
recommended to get these pills on a regular basis or to get a lifelong
treatment of tranquilizer pills in your pet.

Common Tranquilizers for Dogs

Some of the most commonly utilized tranquilizers in dogs are:

Valium

Diazepam

Acepromazine

The tranquilizers should be prescribed by the vet and administered
accordingly. Don't give more pills to your dog only because they seem
not to have any effect. Visit the vet and if need be, he will adjust the
dosage. Dogs shouldn't be administered human tranquilizer pills.

Tranquilizer Side Effects

Most tranquilizer pills used in dogs will cause a series of side effects such as:

Sleepiness

Change of personality and behavior

Lack of activity and interest in activities

Confusion

Increased thirst

Increased appetite/lack of appetite

Some dogs may not experience severe side effects. However, if the
tranquilizer pills are administered for a long period of time, the side
effects are very likely to occur and get worse in time.

Alternative Treatment

Dog behavioral problems may always be solved with proper training.
Even though the training may take more time, the dog can be taught not
to be aggressive or hyper excited. The training may also be accompanied
by a few easy techniques such as the five-minute time out, which can
solve the problem of an excited dog and train him to behave in an
acceptable manner.

Anxiety and fear may be removed with suitable treatment. The root of
the problem should be identified first. The dog may experience fear of
different noises, thunder, flashing lights or may also be stressed by a
change in his life (a change in owner, in the home or the environment).
There are several therapies including counseling, training, aromatherapy
or alternative herbal treatments that will all be effective in reducing
the dog's fear and anxiety. The tranquilizer pills should only be
administered as a last resort, if no other methods work.